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Finalists announced for summer-long filmmaking ‘bootcamp’
A new virtual production film academy dedicated to nurturing the next generation of technology-focused filmmakers has launched at the CoSTAR Realtime Lab in Dundee, with two teams of recent graduates beginning work on innovative films from scratch.
The Big Real Virtual Production Film Academy, a new programme led by Abertay University and supported by Screen Scotland and UK Research and Innovation (UKRI), is designed to provide graduates and early-career filmmakers with access to industry-standard technology, expert mentorship, and professional resources - providing opportunities to develop their skills and create innovative storytelling.
On Monday 9 June 2025, the Academy announced its inaugural cohort of 20 participants, selected through a rigorous judging process led by a panel of industry professionals. This diverse group includes university graduates and emerging filmmakers from across Scotland, including alumni representing Abertay University, Edinburgh Napier, the University of Glasgow, the University of Edinburgh, the University of the West of Scotland and Queen Margaret University.
Over the summer, the participants will be based at the CoSTAR Realtime Lab, with the teams tasked with producing two short film projects, gaining hands-on experience at every stage of the filmmaking process.
The teams will have access to state-of-the-art facilities, including CoSTAR’s advanced studios an LED virtual production wall at Water’s Edge in Dundee, along with specialised resources such as the ViPRE motion capture studio at Abertay University and dedicated recording and editing suites.
Additionally, the Academy will host masterclasses and industry talks both in person at Water’s Edge and online, offering opportunities for participants to deepen their knowledge and enhance their skills.
Members of the judging panel which selected the finalists were drawn from across the industry and included:
- Bimpe Alliu, Concept Artist at Industrial Light & Magic
- Jon Beeston, former Head of Art at Axis Studios
- David Bergantino, CEO of Cold Room Entertainment
- Hannah Ava Dahl, Glasgow-based filmmaker known for her BAFTA-qualifying debut Art Buff
- Mark Grindle, Writer & Researcher
- Brian Hoyle, Senior Lecturer in Film Studies and English at The University of Dundee
- Sarah Thomas Moffat, Founder and CEO of Balanced Media Enterprises
- Phil Stewart, Head of Realtime at Blue-Zoo Animation Studio
- Lei Wang, Dean of the School of Animation and Digital Arts and Professor of Animation at Communication University of China
Phil Vaughan, Senior Lecturer and Co-Investigator at CoSTAR, said:
The Big Real Virtual Production Film Academy marks a significant step in shaping the future of filmmaking in Scotland by providing emerging talent with the opportunity to work with cutting-edge virtual production techniques and industry mentors. The main aim of the programme is to create an environment where innovation, experimentation, and collaboration can thrive, with the ultimate goal of preparing the next generation for the industry’s evolving landscape. Since launching earlier this year, the CoSTAR Realtime Lab has been engaging with a growing number of creative companies and businesses as we seek to committed to strengthen Dundee’s position as a leader in immersive media and virtual production technology.
For more information on the Big Real Virtual Production Film Academy visit this website.
